Mountain lion spotted near La Honda Road

A mountain lion was spotted in the La Honda area in San Mateo County Thursday night, according to county officials.

The lion was seen near the 5800 block of La Honda Road around 6:30 p.m., traveling south into the neighboring creek area, according to a message from the San Mateo County Office of Emergency Services.

Officials are warning residents in the area that mountain lions should not be approached, especially when they are feeding or with their offspring.

Avoid jogging or hiking during the hours when the big cats are most active, at dawn, dusk or at night, and if you do encounter a mountain lion, do not run. Instead, face the animal, make noise and try to look bigger by waving your arms and throwing rocks or other objects.

Keep a close watch on children and pets in areas where the cats are active, and pick up small children if you see a mountain lion.